Hamburg Rail Closures: Port Authority to Shut Container-Access Tracks in August and October

Hamburg, 17 July 2025 — The Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) today confirmed that essential maintenance and upgrade works will require the closure of multiple rail tracks connecting the Altenwerder (CTA), Burchardkai (CTB), and Tollerort (CTT) container terminals with the German hinterland and neighbouring countries.

Closure Schedule

• Phase 1: 04–17 August 2025
– Tracks 1–4 between Hamburg-Harburg and Maschen marshalling yard
– Expected capacity reduction: 60 % on the south-west corridor to Munich, Stuttgart, and Switzerland

• Phase 2: 06–19 October 2025
– Tracks 5–7 on the north link via Hamburg-Billwerder toward Denmark and Scandinavia
– Expected capacity reduction: 70 % on Scandinavian feeder trains

Each closure window is planned for 14 calendar days; contingency single-track operations will add 24–72 hours to normal transit times.

Impact for Shippers

• Export containers: gate-in cut-offs may advance by up to 48 hours.
• Import containers: rail deliveries to southern Germany, Austria, and Switzerland face the longest delays.
• Reefer and hazardous cargo: limited re-positioning slots during the works—priority will be given to dry-cargo units.

Mitigation Options

HPA has approved temporary barge shuttles to Bremen and Wilhelmshaven, and additional trucking slots at the port’s Kombi-Terminal. Rail operators (DB Cargo, Metrans, and TX Logistik) are publishing emergency timetables next week.

Expert Advice

“Book alternative routings now,” says Sunny Worldwide Logistics. “Barge-to-Rotterdam or direct trucking can cut the risk of rolled cargo. Early communication with carriers is key.”

Contact for Contingency Planning

Need help rebooking cargo or arranging pre-pulls and storage? Reach our 24/7 European desk:

• Tel / WhatsApp: +86 135 3425 6328

• WeChat: HMD-Twiggy

• Email: [email protected]